Dario Franchitti

Professional race car driver Dario Franchitti formerly of the Indy Racing League, signed on to race in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series for the 2008 season.

Fast Facts

1. Full name: Dario Franchitti
2. Born: May 18, 1973
3. Birthplace: Bathgate, Scotland
4. Resides: Nashville, Tennessee
5. Winner of the 2007 Indianapolis 500
6. 11 wins in 114 race starts
7. Married actress Ashley Judd in 2001
8. Licensed helicopter pilot

Early Years

Franchitti was born and raised in Scotland, where he got his first taste of racing by competing in kart racing. He raced for several different British teams and leagues, before entering CART in 1997.

CART Years

In 1998, Franchitti signed with Green Racing and continued in the CART series. In 1999 he finished second in the Championship running, finishing just behind Juan Pablo Montoya.

IRL Years

Green Racing, now Andretti Green Racing moved to the Indy Racing League in 2003. Franchitti moved with the team, however missed the majority of the 2003 season with injuries he experienced during the off season.

Indy 500 Win

Following his re-signing with Andretti Green in early 2007, Franchitti won the 2007 Indianapolis 500. The race was shortened that year due to rain.

NASCAR

After signing with Chip Ganassi Racing in early October 2007, Franchitti made his NASCAR debut on October 20, 2007. He will be driving exclusively for NASCAR in 2008.

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